Child Dies Of Complications From Flu: N.C. Health Officials

RALEIGH, N.C. — State health officials reported Thursday that a child in central North Carolina died last week from complications due to an influenza infection, the first child death reported in the 2017-18 flu season. To protect the family’s privacy, the North Carolina Department of Health and Human Services declined to identify the child or release the child’s hometown, county and gender.

"We extend our deepest sympathies to the child’s family,” Dr. Zack Moore, the state epidemiologist, said in a department statement. “If anything positive comes from this tragic loss, we hope it will be that people understand that flu is a serious illness. Flu vaccination is the most effective protection against flu, and it’s still not too late to get a flu shot.”

As of Dec. 16, nine children in other states have died of causes related to the flu during the current season, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention reported. "Up to half of children who die from flu have no known medical condition that would have put them at higher risk," the North Carolina health department said.

In North Carolina, 11 adult flu-associated deaths have been reported during the current flu season, with six victims being 65 and older, the health department said.

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Health officials are urging those who think they might have the flu to contact their doctor to see if they need a prescription antiviral drug, such as Tamiflu. "Early treatment with an antiviral drug can help prevent flu infections from becoming more serious." the department said.

Other precautions people can take to protect against the spread of flu and other viruses include:

• Staying home when sick until fever-free for at least 24 hours
• Covering coughs and sneezes with a tissue and then discarding the tissue promptly
• Washing hands frequently, preferably with soap and water

More information on the flu and where people can get vaccinated is available at www.flu.nc.gov.

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